There is no doubt in some cases they haven't progressed as expected, but the NHL draft shouldn't be used as a measurement of progression for the vast majority of Russian prospects. The NHL draft is heavily biased against Russian prospects. Look at how many Russian based prospects were drafted this year and where they went.

Excellent points! The tell-all case is that of Nichushkin. You can construct a good argument that he is the best player in the draft, at times dominating as a 17-year old in the KHL while skating a regular shift for a top-flight team, and he ends up drafted 10th by the NHL. Ironically, he has no valid KHL contract binding him, and he is expected to show up at the Stars Developmental camp. They may have gotten a steal!